Does IABC Need a Social Networking Site?

The International Association of Business Communicators has several social media tools that limp along with varying degrees of participation.

With the launch of two social networking sites for business communications people, Shel Holtz raised the question of whether IABC needs to create yet another site of its own. His conclusion: no way.

The discussion on the IABC Cafe blog has been interesting, with many voices advising IABC to steer clear of the big investment in volunteer and staff time, and the moderate investment of money. Others, including Melcrum’s Robin Crumby, say it’s a good idea that IABC should take a serious look at.

I lean toward Shel’s view. IABC has several tools available for online interaction among members that have moderate to low uptake. There’s nothing stopping IABC from encouraging members to get together at one or all of the sites that are available.

We’ll see how this debate develops. Organizations can only do so many things. They need to maintain focus, and keep their eye on how best to meet the needs of their members.The association’s decision to move ahead on advocacy for business communicators is a good one. Setting up a new online service could be a real distraction from taking on that role, which no for-profit company can do.

Previous posts:

• Social Sites: MyRagan.com and Melcum’s Communicators’ Network

Tags: iabc, business communications, shel holtz, ragan, melcrum, debate, advocacy